This week, you learned about how the adolescent brain develops, as well as adolescents’ capacity for reasoning and decision making. In this Discussion, you will consider the implications of these findings for the juvenile justice system. Reflect on the following:
- Before reviewing this week’s Learning Resources, what was your opinion on juveniles being tried as adults for their crimes? Has your opinion changed this week? Why or why not?
- Based on your knowledge of adolescent brain development, do you think it is appropriate to hold adolescents to the same standards of accountability as adults? Is it unfair to expect juveniles to possess the reasoning abilities of adults? Or do you think that juveniles who commit crimes must be held responsible for their actions, just as adults are?
- Does your opinion vary depending on the nature of the crime? Explain.
With these thoughts in mind, follow the instructions below to post your response to this Discussion topic.
By Day 3
Post an explanation of your opinion on whether or not adolescent offenders should be tried as adults for their crimes, including if and how your opinion has changed based on this week’s Learning Resources. Be sure to use the Learning Resources to support your response.
